Google Moderator – harnessing the wisdom of the crowds, Google style

Google has just introduced a new service in the Google Labs called Google Moderator. Simple idea, provide a web space where anyone can post a question, idea or topic and let the public vote, comment or suggest relevant responses. There’s a big handy vote button which gives you community moderation, and there are also private moderation facilities to manage trolls etc.

It’s a great idea, and the type of thing that only a company like Google would think of dumping out on the Web for free (and without promotion). Check out the ‘Series’ I created, called ‘Should there be an Internet Commons?’ And while you’re there give it a vote, why doncha? Heh. Fascinating.

* Let your audience decide. Get to know your audience by letting them decide which questions, suggestions or ideas interest them most. * Everyone’s voice is heard. The voting box at the top of page focuses attention on submissions recently added and on the rise, making it simple and easy to participate. * Be creative. Include people in your preparation for lectures, interviews and hard decisions or work together to organize feature requests and brainstorm new ideas.